Tenous Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtɛnjuːs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A noun referring to a fragile and precarious situation or a state of uncertainty.

Examples

• The team’s lead was precarious in the final minutes of the game.
• Her relationship with her partner had become a tenous one, marked by frequent arguments.
• The company’s financial situation was tenous due to the global economic downturn.
• The hikers’ footing was tenous on the steep and rocky terrain.
• The government’s grip on power was tenous, with many calling for reforms.

Synonyms

• Precarious
• Uncertain
• Tenuous

Antonyms

• Firm
• Stable
• Solid

Additional Information

A tenous situation is characterized by a lack of firmness or stability, often leaving one feeling uncertain or vulnerable. This uncertainty can be due to various factors, such as financial instability, conflicting opinions, or unstable relationships.

In some cases, a tenous state can be temporary and may resolve once the underlying issues are addressed. However, in other instances, it can be a long-term condition requiring careful management to avoid collapse.

Tenuous situations often require delicate handling to maintain stability and avoid further damage.

Etymology

The word “tenous” comes from the Latin word “tenere,” meaning “to hold or sustain.” Its meaning has evolved over time to describe situations that are fragile or precarious.

Usage Notes

When using the word “tenous,” it’s important to consider the context and ensure that it accurately conveys the intended meaning. In general, the word is used to describe situations where uncertainty or instability is present.

Cultural References

The term “tenous” has been used in various literary and artistic works, including songs, movies, and novels. For example, the phrase “tenous grip” has been used in several jazz songs to describe a delicate and precarious situation.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some idiomatic expressions that include the word “tenous” are “holding on by a thread” or “on shaky ground.” These phrases convey a sense of fragility and instability, similar to the word “tenous.”

Related Words or Phrases

• Precarious
• Uncertain
• Tenuous

Collocations

• A tenous hold on power

• On tenous ground

• With a tenous grip

Frequency of Use

The word “tenous” is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is often employed in formal writing, such as academic or professional contexts, to describe situations that are uncertain or precarious.

Common Misspellings

• Tenuis
• Tenues